Wasn't sure whether to post this here or in the 'Newly Diagnosed' section, for the benefit of those starting out on their journey.

I'm sure there are plenty of other posts on here saying similar, but when you're attending appointments as an outpatient, or perhaps have to be admitted to hospital, it's a really good idea to ensure you take along any notes you have been given.

Unfortunately, it can take time for information to filter through the 'system'. Therefore, you might find yourself having to rely on your own notes to bring the medical professionals up to speed if the information hasn't found its way to the relevant person/department in time.

This was my dad's experience when he was admitted to hospital in October for a staging laparoscopy. He had ended up on a ward not normally covered by his consultant, which seemed to cause much confusion amongst the ward staff and registrars. Because he had taken his notes, he was able to explain his reason for being there. There have been other instances too where having his notes to hand has proved invaluable.